HOW TO GET CANADA VISA COMPLETE GUIDELINE

An e-Visa for Canada is not currently available for most travelers. However, Canada offers a Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) for citizens of visa-exempt countries who are flying to Canada. This is an online authorization that allows travelers to board a flight to Canada without a visa. It’s important to note that an eTA is not a visa but a similar travel authorization.

Here’s a comprehensive guide to the eTA for Canada:

1. What is an eTA for Canada?

An Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) is an entry requirement for visa-exempt foreign nationals traveling to Canada by air. It is electronically linked to your passport and is valid for up to 5 years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first. It allows multiple visits to Canada, each for up to 6 months.

2. Eligibility for an eTA for Canada

Visa-Exempt Countries: Citizens from most visa-exempt countries, such as the U.S., the UK, Australia, many European countries, and some other countries, are eligible to apply for an eTA.
Not Eligible for eTA: Citizens of countries that require a visa to enter Canada will not be eligible for an eTA and must apply for a visa through the nearest Canadian embassy or consulate.

3. When Do You Need an eTA for Canada?

You will need an eTA if:

You are traveling by air to Canada from a visa-exempt country.
You are transiting through Canada on your way to another destination.
You are a U.S. Green Card holder or permanent resident of the U.S. and are flying to Canada (note that you don’t need an eTA if traveling by land or sea).

You do not need an eTA if you are:

A U.S. citizen (can travel with just a valid U.S. passport).
A Canadian citizen or a Canadian permanent resident.

4. How to Apply for an eTA for Canada

The application process for an eTA is simple and done entirely online. Here’s how you can apply:

Visit the Official eTA Website: Go to the official Canada eTA application page on the Government of Canada website.
Complete the Online Form: Provide your personal information, passport details, and travel plans.
Answer Simple Questions: You will be asked questions about your background to assess your eligibility.
Pay the eTA Fee: The cost is CAD $7, which is payable by credit card or other online payment methods.
Submit the Application: Once you submit the application, most eTA applications are approved within minutes. However, some may take a few days if additional information is required.

5. Processing Time for an eTA

Immediate Approval: In many cases, the approval will come through within a few minutes after you submit the application.
Longer Processing: If additional documentation is needed or if there are concerns, processing may take up to 72 hours.

It’s recommended to apply for an eTA at least 72 hours before your flight to Canada, although most people get approved much faster.

6. eTA Approval

Once approved, the eTA is electronically linked to your passport, and you don’t need a physical visa to travel to Canada.
You’ll receive an email confirming your eTA approval.
Make sure to carry a copy of your approval with you, even though it’s electronically linked to your passport.

7. Validity of the eTA for Canada

The **eTA is valid for 5 years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first.
You can make multiple trips to Canada as long as each stay is less than 6 months.

8. What to Do If Your eTA Is Denied

If your eTA application is denied, you will need to apply for a temporary resident visa (TRV) through the nearest Canadian embassy or consulate.
You may be asked for additional information or documentation, such as an explanation of why you were denied.

9. eTA and Arrival in Canada

When you arrive in Canada, immigration officers will verify your eTA approval in the system, and you may need to show your passport and possibly answer some questions about your trip.
The eTA does not guarantee entry into Canada. The final decision to allow entry is made by the border services officer.

10. eTA for Transit Travelers

If you are transiting through Canada on your way to another destination (and you meet the eligibility criteria), you must have an eTA, even if you don’t leave the airport.

11. Important Notes

eTA for Air Travel Only: The eTA is only required for air travel to Canada. If you are entering Canada by land (e.g., driving or taking a bus from the U.S.) or sea (e.g., cruise), you do not need an eTA.
Check for Accuracy: Double-check your application before submitting it, as any mistakes could lead to delays or rejection.

12. Do You Need a Visa for Canada?

If you are not eligible for an eTA, you will need to apply for a temporary resident visa (TRV) for tourism, study, or business purposes. You can apply for a TRV through the Canadian embassy or consulate in your home country.